Retired GP and Professor: cat-lovers and home carers

About this sitter

We would like to look after the homes of people who may have a well-loved cat or two, anywhere in Europe or North America. We are able to manage a spacious detached house and garden since we do that on a daily basis in our own 200-year-old farmhouse. Keeping a watchful eye on the care and maintenance of old and precious places is something we have long experience of! A minimum stay of 1 week, and a maximum of one month is feasible, though a longer stay is also possible if needed. We are experienced in looking after cats, and careful with keeping to their routine, as well as respecting their likes and dislikes. We do not have children and hence also no grandchildren, so will not have family visiting your home. We will also be happy to agree that no other visitors will stay over.

Why they want to house sit

We have been keen travellers for many years, always preferring to stay for a good length of time in any one place, and finding homes or villas to stay in, rather than hotels or B & B's.

Their experience

Many years ago, we rented an apartment in Beaconsfield, England. Our then landlord asked us to move into her house whilst she was away on an extended holiday. We moved into her home, and her cat settled with us well.

More recently, we looked after a cat near the Mendip Hills, for which there is a testimonial from the owners on this website. We know how to look after gardens, ponds, swimming pools, and the surrounds of a home, and are capable of making basic repairs as needed. In past times in our own home, several cats have chosen us as suitable candidates for their food and comfort, and they have been most welcome. We have always enjoyed having them. The last cat we owned joined us on long walks beside the river at the bottom of the garden. He sometimes felt we had gone too far, and had to be carried the rest of the way home, which we think was in fact the highlight of his walk.

What can they bring to the assignment

Respect, problem-solving where needed, conscientiousness, taking care at all times, and a routine which revolves around being in the home and garden. We prefer to eat at home, and enjoy living quietly together without much human company. Cats of course are the exception. We are non-smokers, and can access a car.